Potato pickle, also known as “Aloo ka Achar,” is a delicious and tangy condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. It is made using boiled potatoes, a blend of spices, and an oil-based dressing. This pickle is easy to prepare and can be made in a jiffy. In this article, we’ll guide you through the complete recipe of making potato pickle at home.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 medium-sized potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 2 tbsp mustard oil (or any oil of your choice)
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp asafoetida (hing)
- 1 tbsp fennel seeds (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1 tbsp jaggery or sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (for tanginess)
- 1 tbsp white vinegar (optional, for extra preservation)
- 2-3 green chilies (slit, optional)
- 1/2 tsp fenugreek powder (methi powder, optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes. The smaller the cubes, the quicker they absorb the flavors of the spices.
- Boil the potatoes in water until they are just tender but not mushy. You can check by inserting a fork—if it goes through easily but the potato doesn’t fall apart, they’re done.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool completely. Make sure there is no excess water left.
2. Temper the Spices:
- In a pan, heat the mustard oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter for a few seconds.
- Add the fennel seeds (if using) and asafoetida. Stir well to combine.
- Next, add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and fenugreek powder (if using). Quickly stir these spices to avoid burning. Cook them for a few seconds until they release their aroma.
3. Add the Potatoes:
- Once the spices are tempered, add the boiled and cooled potato cubes to the pan. Gently toss the potatoes in the spice mixture so that they are well coated.
- If using, add the slit green chilies at this stage. Stir the mixture well to ensure that the potatoes are evenly mixed with the spices.
4. Add Sweetness and Tanginess:
- Add jaggery or sugar (if you prefer a sweeter pickle). The sweetness balances the tangy and spicy flavors of the pickle.
- Add lemon juice and vinegar for a nice zesty kick. You can adjust the quantity based on your preference for tanginess.
5. Season and Cook:
- Add salt to taste and stir everything together. Let the pickle cook for another 2-3 minutes so the spices can blend in well with the potatoes.
- After a few minutes of cooking, remove the pan from heat and let the pickle cool down completely.
6. Storing the Pickle:
- Transfer the cooled potato pickle to a clean, dry glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool, dry place for 1-2 days to let the flavors marinate. You can also refrigerate it for longer shelf life.
Tips for Best Potato Pickle:
- Oil choice: Mustard oil is traditionally used in pickles, giving it a distinctive flavor. However, you can substitute it with any other oil if you prefer.
- Add more spices: If you enjoy a spicier pickle, you can increase the amount of red chili powder or even add chili flakes for extra heat.
- Sun exposure: If you want your pickle to develop more intense flavors, leave it under the sun for a few hours each day after preparing it. This helps in faster fermentation.
- Preservation: The addition of vinegar and oil helps preserve the pickle for longer periods, even without refrigeration.
Health Benefits of Potato Pickle:
While pickles are often enjoyed for their bold flavors, they can also have health benefits. Potatoes are a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamins, and the spices used in potato pickle, like turmeric and mustard, are known for their anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
Conclusion:
Potato pickle is a simple and flavorful condiment that can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes. Whether paired with paratha, dal, or even rice, this tangy and spicy pickle adds a burst of excitement to any meal. With the steps provided, you can quickly prepare a homemade batch and enjoy it for days. So, gather the ingredients, get your hands on some spices, and savor the delicious taste of homemade potato pickle!
